TL;DR: Leaders need to be consistent in cultivating a safe environment where people can be creative, make mistakes, and take chances. Foster relationships based on trust, open communication, and a growth mindset where teachers are encouraged to try new things without fear of failure. Model and promote creativity and risk-taking amongst staff and celebrate taking chances. Administrators, how often do … Read More
Reflecting to Be a Better Leader
TL;DR: Be a better leader through journaling, exercise, accountability partners, and mindful practices. Leaders should ensure reflection is a part of their daily practice to stay at the top of their game. In a world deprived of time to breathe, face-to-face connections, space for people to think deeply, and to make smart, reflective decisions, I have to wonder how we … Read More
School Leaders in a Pandemic
TL;DR: School leaders across the nation are thanklessly navigating unchartered territory as they manage schools amidst the pandemic. Parents, teachers, school leaders, and other school staff are all struggling; everyone needs understanding during this time. Over the last nine months, life has been hard for teachers, students, and parents across the nation. Our social media feeds are a testimony to … Read More
They Don’t Work For You; You Work For Them
TL;DR: You work for the people you lead. It is your job to find out what motivates them, what inspires them, and what brings them happiness. Leaders need to build trusting relationships with staff to meet their needs. Trusting your staff will give them the opportunity to grow organically. “When you realize you work for your employees and not the … Read More
Listening Matters
TL;DR: Sometimes all we need is someone who will listen to us. As an instructional coach, listening matters—it is essential for building relationships. Coaches should share ideas, but ultimately, the teacher needs ownership in developing an idea and implementing it. In the last coaching blog, we discussed the importance of relationships. Relationships are the foundation for strong and effective instructional … Read More